Cole's position at left-back has been taken over by Cesar Azpilicueta in recent weeks, which has led to speculation that the England international could leave in the summer.

But Mourinho has given the 32-year-old hope ahead of Chelsea's Champions League clash with Steaua Bucharest, where Cole is set to make his first start in eight matches, claiming he is still very much part of the Blues' future.

"The club politics, and these are correct politics I have to say if you analyse it by the club's perspective, is not to give long-term contracts to players over 30/31 years old," Mourinho said.

"But these players, Ashley, John and Lampard, Petr Cech, all these guys are very positive guys in the club even if they are not playing match after match, like for example Ashley Cole isn't.